De-stress Your Business

In this episode of De-Stress Your Business, Alexis Kingsbury explores how professional services firms can easily create compelling case studies using AI.    Despite the value of case studies, firms often avoid them due to the time and effort required. Alexis introduces a streamlined approach using a simple checklist and AI prompts to convert rough notes into polished case studies.    Learn the steps to gather essential information, prompt AI for drafting, and finalize case studies efficiently, enabling even junior staff to handle the task.    ---   Helpful resources: Accountancy Playbook - Win More Ideal Clients: https://discover.airmanual.co/resources/win-more-ideal-clients Alexis speaking at Accountex 2025: https://www.accountex.co.uk/london/event/how-to-get-the-best-out-of-your-people-even-if-theyre-terrible/ Example of a case study created using this approach: https://airmanual.link/case-study/tennick More Playbooks: https://www.airmanual.co/resources

In this episode of De-Stress Your Business, Alexis Kingsbury explores why great technology often fails in businesses despite its potential for significant impact.    He breaks down common myths and excuses for tech adoption failures and introduces a seven-step tech adoption process designed to ensure your team not only has the tools but uses them effectively to solve real business problems.    Alexis also shares insights on how to align processes with technology, obtain cross-business buy-in, and provide structured training to achieve long-term success.    ---   Helpful resources:   - Get the playbook and interactive checklist at airmanual.link/das25 for step-by-step guidance.

In this episode of the De-stress Your Business podcast, Alexis Kingsbury shares insights from his ACCA Roadshow presentation on how to build scalable systems, delegate work, and enhance client experiences in accountancy practices.    Using real-life examples, Alexis discusses the necessity of processes, common pitfalls, and strategies for improvement.    Learn how to effectively onboard new clients, improve recruitment, and create a thriving business environment with less stress.    Get actionable tips and hear inspiring stories of how effective process implementation can transform lives and businesses.   00:00 Introduction and Importance of Processes 01:40 Challenges in Recruitment and Onboarding 03:47 Personal Journey and Business Success 07:12 Common Struggles in Accountancy Practices 11:22 Strategies for Hiring A Players 14:37 Making It Easy to Do a Great Job 20:47 Client Onboarding Process 25:09 Key Takeaways and Conclusion   ---   Helpful resources: Participate in the research and get your FREE playbook: https://airmanual.link/get-your-SOP

Are you overwhelmed by the thought of selling your business?   It's a lot—confusing valuations, succession plans, and tax pitfalls may be keeping you up at night.    Maybe you feel trapped by the legal and financial headaches that turn what should be a smooth transition into a nerve-wracking ordeal.    Or maybe the mere idea of letting go leaves you anxious about your future and the legacy you've built. If all of this sounds familiar, you're not alone—and it's time to rethink how you approach your exit.   Today we have Richard McMullan on the podcast. He's the brilliant mind behind The Business Exit Blueprint. He's also guided 130+ business owners to transform their exit strategies—helping them scale companies from £1M to £20M and boost value by an average of 40%—and turn overwhelming challenges into clear opportunities for a more relaxed and profitable future.   In today's podcast you'll:   Discover how to break down the exit process and tackle the parts that stress out business owners Hear real-life stories of pivoting strategies and spotting early warning signs Get practical tips on balancing day-to-day operations with long-term exit planning Learn offbeat advice that cuts stress and unlocks new opportunities   If you're ready to flip the script on exit headaches and set yourself up for a smoother, smarter transition, you won't want to miss this conversation!   #DeStressYourBusiness #BusinessExits #ExitStrategy #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #RichardMcMullan   ---   Helpful resources: Richard's LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-mcmullan/ Richard's website- https://aurelius-advisory.com/ Richard's book- https://aurelius-advisory.com/the-business-exit-blueprint-book/ Book recommendation- Living at the summit, by Tom Hill: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Living-Summit-Novel-Approach-Exceptional/dp/0966782135

In this episode of De-stress Your Business, host Alexis Kingsbury discusses how to effectively manage conversations about employee performance issues.    He outlines a three-step framework to address underperformance without causing stress, awkwardness, or defensive reactions. Through specific feedback, clarifying the impact of mistakes, and setting clear expectations for improvement, Alexis provides actionable steps to enhance employee performance and maintain team morale.    01:08 Why Leaders Avoid Performance Conversations 01:29 The Consequences of Avoidance 02:17 Setting Clear Expectations 02:59 Giving Specific Feedback 04:07 Focusing on the Impact 04:58 Setting Clear Expectations for Improvement 06:01 Handling Pushback Calmly 07:24 Reinforcing Accountability 08:00 Conclusion and Next Steps   ---   Helpful resources:   - Get a playbook for resolving unsatisfactory performance available at www.airmanual.co/resources

In this episode of De-stress Your Business, Alexis Kingsbury dives into assessing and resolving employee underperformance.    He discusses the importance of using performance data over gut instinct, signs that indicate potential improvement, and when to consider firing an employee.    Alexis also covers the significant costs of keeping underperformers, creating structured improvement plans, and the consequences of inaction. Tune in for practical advice on maintaining high team morale and productivity.   ---   Helpful resources:   - Get the playbook for resolving unsatisfactory employee performance at https://www.airmanual.co/resources 

For many business owners, dealing with HMRC and tax compliance is one of the most stressful parts of running a business. The fear of making mistakes, the pressure of deadlines, and the complexity of the system can feel overwhelming. In this episode, we're joined by Paul Aplin OBE, a trailblazer in tax and business strategy. With decades of experience and a leading role in the Making Tax Digital initiative, Paul shares practical advice for reducing tax-related stress and avoiding common pitfalls. We cover:

Customer feedback can be a gift—or a challenge. For service businesses, mastering how to handle it is key to improving your offering and keeping clients happy. But what's the best way to respond to tough criticism without defensiveness or ensure glowing praise doesn't go unnoticed?   In this episode of De-stress Your Business, Rachel Harris, aka “accountant_she,” shares her proven process for handling customer feedback in a way that fuels growth and reduces stress. Rachel, an award-winning accountant and advocate for small businesses, reveals how to: Respond to negative feedback with professionalism and composure Amplify positive feedback to boost morale and attract new clients Build a culture of continuous improvement through actionable insights   Whether feedback stresses you out or gets lost in the day-to-day, this episode will give you practical strategies to make it work for your business—not against it.   ---   Helpful Resources: Accountant_She on Social Media: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/accountant_she/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@accountant_she YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/accountantshe Rachel's Website: https://www.accountantshe.com/

Mergers can tear teams apart… when they are trying to bring teams together!   Uncertainty spreads like wildfire, leaving employees anxious about their jobs and leaders scrambling to restore focus. Productivity plummets as confusion and fear take hold.    The best talent starts eyeing the exit, while the rest are stuck wondering if their contributions even matter. For leaders, it's a nightmare—morale crumbles, resistance grows, and the stress of trying to hold it all together feels insurmountable.   That's why we're talking to Nikki Adams, the Joint Managing Director of Ad Valorem Group and a leader who's been in the trenches of business transformation for over two decades. Nikki has built award-winning teams, steered organizations through complex mergers, and implemented strategies that turn chaos into collaboration.    Recognized as a Xero Mid-Size Firm of the Year winner and one of Practice Ignition's Top 50 Women in Accounting, Nikki is known for her ability to unite teams, reduce stress, and make even the most daunting transitions a success.   In this episode of De-stress Your Business, we dive into: The first steps leaders must take to calm employees and regain control during a merger How to avoid the classic mistakes that stress employees and kill morale Strategies Nikki uses to turn resistant teams into unified powerhouses Real-life examples of mergers that went from disaster to triumph under Nikki's guidance   If you've ever wondered how to manage a merger without losing your team—or your sanity—this episode is for you.   Don't miss this game-changing conversation on De-stress Your Business!   #DeStressYourBusiness #Leadership #MergersAndAcquisitions #ChangeManagement #NikkiAdams #TeamSuccess #EmployeeEngagement   ---   Helpful resources: Nikki on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikkiadamsadvalorem/?originalSubdomain=uk Ad Valorem: https://www.advaloremgroup.uk/ ETL Global: https://www.etl-global.com/

Worried about your business running out of money?   This common fear among entrepreneurs goes beyond mere inconvenience; it strikes at the heart of your ability to operate and grow. Imagine the stress of looking at your financial statements, realizing there isn't enough to cover next month's bills, let alone unexpected expenses.    Whether it's missing payroll, delaying crucial inventory purchases, or facing hefty tax bills unprepared, these scenarios can shake even the most seasoned business owner. It's not just about managing finances; it's about securing peace of mind in a world where cash flow is king.   This week on “De-stress Your Business,” we're joined by Mike Michalowicz, a titan in the entrepreneurial community and the creator of the Profit First formula. With a track record of founding and selling multiple multi-million dollar businesses before his 35th birthday, Mike has dedicated his career to teaching other entrepreneurs how to achieve the same success.    His Profit First system has been applied by hundreds of thousands of businesses worldwide, radically improving their cash management and ensuring their financial health.   In this episode, Mike shares: Effective strategies to prevent financial panic at the end of each financial period, Real-world success stories of businesses that implemented Profit First and transformed their financial health, Step-by-step actions you can take immediately to start building financial security in your business.   Tune in to episode 149 with Mike Michalowicz to learn how to turn your financial anxiety into a story of success.   ---   Helpful resources: LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikemichalowicz/ Website- https://mikemichalowicz.com/ /  https://www.mikemotorbike.com  Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/mikemichalowicz/?hl=en Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/MikeMichalowiczFanPage/ YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/user/MikeMichalowicz X- https://twitter.com/mikemichalowicz?lang=en Mike's Books- https://www.amazon.com/stores/Mike-Michalowicz/author/B002E4G0CC?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true Profit First UK: https://profitfirstuk.co.uk/ Recommended book: How to Stop Worrying and Start Living by Dale Carnegie

What do you do when everything is falling apart?    Your entire team walks out, leaving you with no one to lean on and years of expertise wiped out overnight. Clients are questioning your ability to deliver, peers are skeptical of your vision, and the sheer weight of rebuilding feels impossible.    Worse yet, you can't help but wonder—was it all your fault? Did you push too hard, fail to communicate, or simply choose the wrong people?   That's exactly what Eriona Bajrakurtaj faced—and conquered. As CEO of Major's Accounts and founder of Volt Digital Transformation, Eriona didn't just survive the collapse of her team—she turned it into the foundation for a thriving digital empire.    Today, she leads a fully digital accounting practice serving over 1,600 clients, has pioneered cutting-edge systems that future-proof businesses, and is recognized as a trailblazer in digital transformation.    Her story is one of resilience, bold decisions, and proving skeptics wrong at every turn.   In this episode of De-stress Your Business, Eriona shares: How she bounced back after losing her team during a digital transformation The bold moves she made to build a more agile and aligned workforce Her strategies for navigating skepticism from industry peers Why embracing challenges can lead to your biggest breakthroughs.   If you've ever felt like your business was on the brink, this episode will inspire you to rethink setbacks and come back stronger. ---   Helpful resources: LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/eriona-bajrakurtaj-19922006/?originalSubdomain=uk Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/eriona_bajrakurtaj/ Tiktok- https://www.tiktok.com/@eriona_majors_accounts Major's Accounts- https://majorsaccounts.com/ Volt Digital Transformation: https://www.voltdigital.ai/ Recommended book: Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Guy Kawasaki

In this episode of De-stress Your Business, Alexis Kingsbury tackles the often stressful end-of-year annual planning process.    He provides practical tips for simplifying the process, aligning your team around shared goals, and creating an actionable plan for 2025.    Alexis highlights the importance of using quarterly reviews, effective tools like SWOT analysis and OKRs, and obtaining structured input from your team.    He also shares strategies to keep your planning flexible and focused, ensuring continuous progress and engagement throughout the year.   00:00 Introduction: De-stress Your Annual Planning 01:46 Why Annual Planning Feels Stressful 02:50 Preparing for Annual Planning Throughout the Year 04:21 Tools and Templates for Effective Planning 07:55 Aligning Your Team and Gathering Input 09:45 Structuring Your Annual Planning Meeting 12:17 Creating an Action Plan 14:09 Communicating and Adapting Your Plan 15:45 Conclusion and Resources   ---   Helpful resources:   - Template for your annual planning meeting: https://airmanual.link/annual-planning-agenda

In this special rhyming episode of De-Stress Your Business, Alexis Kingsbury reflects on a whirlwind year, expressing gratitude for listeners and guests.    He gives you a whistle stop tour through ALL the interviews in 2024, grouped into topics like pricing models, marketing, sales strategies, and tech automation.    The episode also teases a comedy song, 'Be Kind to Your Accountant This Christmas,' available at: https://youtu.be/nDJmcQ2wx6Q   P.S. Alexis wrote the poem. It was NOT created by AI or by the team. So any complaints on poor rhymes can be blamed squarely on him.

Are your outdated accounting practices costing you clients and damaging your business reputation?  In a world where speed, efficiency, and precision drive client decisions, clinging to traditional methods is not just inefficient—it's business suicide. Clients today expect real-time insights and seamless service; failing to provide these can lead them straight to your savvier competitors.  The gap between what you offer and what your clients demand is widening, and without a shift, your firm could be left irreversibly behind. This week on ‘De-stress Your Business,' we confront this urgent issue with David Kime, a visionary who's revolutionizing the accounting landscape by defying conventional practices. Known for his bold approach and technological prowess, David has not only anticipated the future needs of the industry but has actively shaped them. He's successfully turned traditional accounting on its head by integrating innovative technologies like DEXT, making businesses not just survive but thrive in the digital age. His expertise has transformed struggling firms into market leaders, setting new standards in client satisfaction and retention. Join us as David shares:

Many people use LinkedIn hoping it will help their career or business grow, but often it just feels like a waste of time.  This is especially true for professional services providers like accountants and bookkeepers who spend hours trying to connect with others and make their profile stand out, only to see little to no results.  The platform is crowded, it's hard to get noticed, and all that effort doesn't seem to pay off. So, how can you actually make LinkedIn work for you without it taking over your life? We've got an episode that might just change the way you think about LinkedIn.  Today, we're going deep with Ashley Leeds, also known as the ‘15-Minute Guy.'  Ashley is a legend in transforming LinkedIn from a time-consuming chore into a powerhouse tool for professionals.  With many years of proven success, he's revolutionized the approach to online networking, showing how to use 15 focused minutes a day to achieve the results that hours of effort used to promise. Here's what you'll learn in today's episode:

Are you tired of sifting through candidate profiles only to find that they don't live up to their resumes?  Do traditional hiring methods seem to deliver professionals who lack creativity and the ability to drive real innovation in your business?  If this sounds familiar, you're certainly not alone. Many leaders are discovering that standard recruitment processes often fail to uncover the transformative talent that could significantly advance their organizations. That's why we invited Chloe Britnell, a revolutionary partner at PJCO who defies industry norms by successfully championing unconventional talent. With her audacious approach, Chloe not only fills positions but also cultivates potential leaders who bring fresh perspectives and drive innovation. Her strategies have consistently proven that great minds don't always follow conventional paths. In this episode of De-stress Your Business, Chloe shares:

Is every potential client hitting you with, “Let me think about it,” and never closing the deal?

Tired of feeling like every day is a losing battle?   You're working harder than ever, but still, it feels like you're failing to get ahead.    What if the problem isn't the hours you're putting in, but the way you're approaching your day?   In this week's episode of De-stress Your Business, we've got Baiju Solanki, award-winning entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, and CEO of EnSpirit Global, whose proven methods have transformed countless leaders into high performers.     Baiju has helped business owners thrive, by showing them how to win the day—every single day.   Baiju's game-changing insights include: Why you're losing the day and how to change it How to work fast without the chaos The exact steps to set yourself up for daily success His proven strategies for breaking through internal barriers and unlocking your full potential   Baiju's expertise has taken companies from struggling to succeeding, and his no-nonsense approach is exactly what you need to finally take control of your day.   If you're ready to stop feeling stuck and start winning, this episode is a must-listen.   #DeStressYourBusiness #Leadership #BusinessSuccess #BaijuSolanki #WinTheDay #HighPerformance #Entrepreneurship   ---   Helpful resources: LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/baijusolanki-performance-psychologist/?originalSubdomain=uk Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/baijusolanki/?hl=en YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/@BaijuSolanki Website- https://baijusolanki.com/ Change Your Game Scorecard: https://changeyourgamescorecard.com/ Baiju's book: https://www.changeyourgamebook.com/ Book recommendation: Turning Pro, by Steven Pressfield

Tired of tech solutions that promise to simplify your operations but end up adding more chaos?    It seems that every new tool pledges to boost efficiency but often leads to increased complexity, draining your resources, and frustrating your team.   That's why we're excited to have Abby Anderson, who's legendary for seamlessly integrating the right tech into the operations in her bookkeeping practice.    Her choices in tech have not just streamlined her firm; they've propelled it into rapid growth while freeing up Abby's time.   So in this episode, Abby shares:   How she sorts through the tech noise to pinpoint solutions that truly deliver Firsthand accounts of how the right tech has reshaped her business Her strategy for keeping technology user-friendly and problem-focused Practical advice for leaders overwhelmed by tech options   Got questions? Share them with us in the comments!   #DeStressYourBusiness #podcast #techintegration #AbbyAnderson #businessgrowth #efficiency #bookkeepingsoftware   ---   Helpful resources:   Abby's links: LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/abby-anderson-rocksolid Website- https://www.rocksolidacc.com/ Website: https://www.iaimee.io/   Recommended book:  Minimal Viable Launch by Lee Russel: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Minimal-Viable-Launch-Creating-Software/dp/B0D27899T2   Alexis's webinar with Amanda C Watts on how processes can be documented super fast: https://airmanual.link/simplescales   Software products and tools mentioned in the episode #notspon: Practice Management SoftwareClient Engager Senta (Now owned by IRIS) Accountancy Manager (Now Bright Manager) Accounting / bookkeeping softwareXero Quickbooks Sage Advisory / reporting appsFathom HQ Pulse XBert Clarity Futrli (now part of Sage for Accountants) Document capture and automationDEXT Prepare HubDocs iAimee Payments softwareAdfin Apron Telleroo Software comparison sitesCapterra App Advisory Plus (Accounting & Bookkeeping specific)

Struggling with underperforming employees?

Feeling overwhelmed by constant meetings and interruptions?

Do you ever feel like your managers are doing a good job, but they could be doing so much more?   Perhaps they're handling the basic responsibilities, but they're not really stepping up in the way that you need them to.    Or maybe you feel like you've got bad managers in your business, and you're worried about the impact on the rest of the team.   In this episode of the De stress Your Business podcast, Alexis will walk you through the key steps that can help your managers transform from just doing their job to really becoming leaders. From setting up the right meeting rhythms, to teaching them how to take full ownership, not just for their own area, but for the success of the business as a whole.   He'll also get into how you can empower your managers to lead by example, raise risks, solve problems and coach their teams.    ---   Helpful resources:   - Interested in getting best practice process templates to make management easy? Email alexis.kingsbury @ airmanual.co

Ever find yourself in a meeting where your team keeps going in circles, and you're the one who ends up solving all the problems?  It's exhausting. As a manager, it can feel like you're carrying the weight of every decision, while your team waits for you to give them the answers. But what if you could guide your team to make better decisions without having to do all the heavy lifting yourself? Well, in episode 136 of the De-Stress Your Business podcast, I share how you can use facilitation skills to become a better manager — and how that can free up your time, empower your team, and help everyone achieve more. I dive into practical strategies for leading discussions, avoiding decision paralysis, and using what I call the ‘bungee intervention' — a way to provide just enough direction to keep your team on track without taking over.  #LeadershipSkills #EffectiveMeetings #FacilitationTips #DeStressYourBusiness #ManagementHacks #DestressYourBusiness

Every entrepreneur grapples with the challenge of scaling efficiently. However, the fear of excessive automation can be paralyzing, potentially leading to impersonal customer interactions, demotivated teams, and rigid structures that hinder growth rather than support it.    The key challenge is not just selecting the right areas to automate but also implementing systems that boost productivity while preserving the uniqueness that defines your brand.   Enter Ernesto Mandowsky, the genius behind the Million Dollar Machine, celebrated for enhancing business efficiencies and significantly boosting revenues. Ernesto has expertly guided numerous companies from cumbersome manual processes to streamlined, profitable operations, often tripling their market value and revenues in just a few years.   In this episode of De-stress Your Business, we delve deep with Ernesto to uncover:   His strategic approach to identifying high-impact areas for automation that prime businesses for scaling and eventual sale. Tales of transformation from manual chaos to automated harmony, where companies see marked improvements in efficiency and market value.  Practical tips for business leaders embarking on their automation journey, requiring no deep tech expertise.  Ernesto's distinctive method of merging personal passion with professional pursuits to propel business success.   Join us for this critical conversation that could redefine how you perceive and implement automation in your operations. Tune in to transform your operational challenges into streamlined successes.   #DeStressYourBusiness #podcast #automation #businessscaling #ErnestoMandowsky #businessgrowth #entrepreneurship #systemsefficiency   ---   Helpful resources:   LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/ernestomandowsky/ Website- https://www.themilliondollarmachine.com/ Book: Reinventing Organizations by Frederic Laloux: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Reinventing-Organizations-Creating-Inspired-Consciousness/dp/2960133501

Is your business growth stalling because you're the one holding it back?

Ever feel like your own mind is sabotaging your day? Whether it's stressing about a big meeting or just feeling guilty for no good reason, anxiety can be crippling.

Do you ever feel overwhelmed at the thought of automating your business?    Often the idea of automating can feel way too big and complicated, which often leads to doing nothing at all.   But here's the thing—automation doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing approach. What if, instead of trying to automate everything, you started with just one task? One repetitive, manual task that drains your time and energy. Imagine the relief of getting that off your plate.   The truth is, automation isn't about perfection or overhauling your entire business overnight. It's about making progress, starting small, and tackling those tasks that cause the most pain.   That's where Isaac Perdomo comes in. As the founder of Opzer, Isaac has saved businesses over 20,000 hours of manual work, helping them automate and scale without adding more staff.    With over a decade of experience and more than 50 businesses transformed, Isaac is the go-to expert for automation that actually works. His strategies have helped companies not just save time, but unlock significant growth and profitability—all while avoiding the common pitfalls of automation. He's the master at turning complex workflows into seamless systems that deliver real ROI.   In this episode, we cover:  How to spot the best areas to automate for maximum impact  The common mistakes that can derail your automation efforts  How Isaac's strategies have helped businesses scale Practical steps to use the right automations for the right tasks   Ready to stop wasting time and automate for real results? Drop your questions in the comments!   #DeStressYourBusiness #Podcast #Automation #BusinessGrowth #IsaacPerdomo #Entrepreneurship #ROI #ScalingUp #BusinessOwners   ---   Helpful resources: Isaac's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaac-perdomo/ Opzer's Automation for Accountants YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@opzerco/featured Website: https://opzer.co/ Isaac's Newsletter: https://opzer.co/newsletter Isaac's article on the 9 areas to automate as an accounting firm: https://ramp.com/blog/9-key-areas-to-automate-as-an-accounting-firm

Are constant deadlines and stressed-out teams dragging your business down?   As a business leader, you know the toll that high-pressure periods, like tax season, can take on your team. The stress builds up, morale plummets, and soon you're facing burnout, decreased productivity, and even the risk of losing your best talent.    This relentless cycle not only affects your team but also spills over into client interactions, impacting the growth and success of your business.   But it doesn't have to be this way.   That's why I sat down with Graeme Tennick, the mastermind behind Tennick Accountants, who has cracked the code on turning stress into success.    Graeme has transformed his firm by prioritizing team well-being, slashing stress during crunch times, and creating a happier, more productive work environment.   In this episode of De-stress Your Business, we dive into: How Graeme eliminated crunch-time stress and improved team morale The surprising strategies that turned deadlines from stressful to successful Real-life examples of how a happier team led to better client interactions and business growth Actionable tips for any business leader looking to reduce stress and retain top talent   Join us for an insightful conversation that will change the way you approach crunch times in your business. With Graeme's proven tactics, you'll learn how to create a work environment where your team thrives and your business flourishes.   ---   Helpful resources: Website- https://tennick.co.uk/ LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/graeme-tennick-xero-expert-virtual-finance-director/ Graeme's book recommendation: Greg McKeown: Essentialism: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Essentialism-Disciplined-Pursuit-Greg-McKeown/dp/0804137382

In this episode of De-Stress Your Business, host Alexis Kingsbury is joined by Dawn Marriott, a business turnaround expert and partner at HG Capital.    Dawn shares her strategies for optimizing leadership time, delegating tasks, and making tough decisions. She discusses her role as CEO of Azets, highlighting the challenges she faced with rapid growth, integration of multiple acquisitions, and the need for detailed planning and accountability.    Dawn emphasizes the importance of building a strong team, managing time effectively, and making swift decisions to remove blockers. She also gives practical advice on achieving consistency in processes and the balance between centralized and localized decision-making.    The episode concludes with a quick-fire round where Dawn shares her personal insights and recommendations for business leaders.   Tune in to learn how to take action and see the positive impact!    ---   Links and Resources:   Dawn on LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-marriott-6853701/ Book recommendation: The Ultra Processed People (Chris Van Tulleken) https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ultra-Processed-People-Stuff-That-Isnt/dp/1529900050

How often do you find yourself overwhelmed because there's no clear process in place?   Without well-documented processes, mistakes pile up, stress levels rise , and delegation feels impossible. But why do so many businesses miss the mark on this?   In this episode, Alexis uncovers the exact moment leaders should seize to document processes effectively and how that can transform your business.   --- Resources   Website: www.airmanual.co

Does your revenue feel like a leaking bucket, where more effort pours in than value pours out?     Many entrepreneurs tirelessly chase new sales and pump resources into various business areas, only to find that their overall valuation barely budges. This constant grind can lead to burnout and frustration, leaving business owners questioning which parts of their revenue truly drive value and which are just exhausting their resources.   The uncertainty and stress of not knowing how to optimize or where to channel efforts effectively can stifle growth and innovation.   Enter Louise White, a titan in transforming business revenue and a visionary in market strategy. Having orchestrated the turnaround and explosive growth of numerous businesses, Louise consistently turns stagnant revenue streams into massive wealth generators.    From redefining media companies in the digital age to achieving a monumental 28X return on a business exit, her strategies have proven to be goldmines.   In today's episode, we sit down with Louise to uncover: The secrets to distinguishing between high and low-value revenue. Proven strategies for restructuring your business model to focus on the most profitable areas. Insightful anecdotes from her own experience of turning struggling media companies into lucrative ventures.   Don't miss this opportunity to reshape your perspective on revenue and propel your business to new heights with Louise White's expert guidance!   #BusinessGrowth #RevenueOptimization #LouiseWhite #Podcast #Entrepreneurship #BusinessStrategy   ---   Helpful resources: LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/louisewhite Twitter- https://twitter.com/louisecwhite

Feeling like your relentless hard work is getting you nowhere in your business?

Have you moved away from what you love, to being overwhelmed by the complexities of growing your business? Are you constantly battling the complexities of marketing your business, leaving you little time to do more of what you love?

Does the idea of starting a business podcast fill you with excitement but also dread?

Is your accounting firm drowning in outdated practices, losing clients, and missing out on opportunities due to a lack of modernization?    Many accounting and bookkeeping businesses find themselves trapped in the past, struggling with inefficiencies, outdated technology, and an inability to meet the evolving demands of the industry.    This stagnation can lead to frustrated staff, dissatisfied clients, and a constant battle to keep up with competitors who are leveraging the latest innovations. The pain of falling behind is real, and it's affecting your bottom line and your peace of mind.   That's why in today's podcast, we're speaking with Mark Lee, a true trailblazer in the world of accountancy. Mark is a highly respected speaker, mentor, and influencer who has helped countless firms modernize their practices and thrive in the digital age.    With a career spanning over three decades, Mark has transformed accounting practices through innovative technology, earning recognition as one of the top 100 global business influencers by Sage.    His influence extends beyond technology; he chairs the UK's largest network of specialist tax advisers and has received the prestigious "Outstanding Contribution" award at Accountex 2024. Mark's thought leadership and expertise have made him a sought-after mentor, guiding firms to new heights of efficiency and profitability.   Our conversation dives deep into: The biggest future demands for accountancy and bookkeeping businesses Practical steps for businesses feeling stuck in their ways to embrace modernization How AI and automation can revolutionize day-to-day operations Real-life success stories of businesses that have thrived through modernization Essential skills accountants need to develop for future success   Join us for De-stress Your Business Episode 62 — our live podcast.   #destressyourbusiness #podcast #accounting #modernization #MarkLee #technology #AI #businessgrowth #futureproofing   ---   Helpful resources:   Website- https://bookmarklee.co.uk/ LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/bookmarklee/ Facebook- https://web.facebook.com/BookMarkLee?_rdc=1&_rdr YouTube- https://www.youtube.com/user/bookmarklee

In this mini-episode of De-stress Your Business, Alexis Kingsbury addresses the often-asked question of whether businesses need to hire an operations manager.  Alexis discusses the value of having a Chief Operations Officer (COO) vs. heads of functions owning their processes. He emphasizes the importance of empowering department heads to manage their processes rather than delegating all responsibility to one person.  Alexis also shares insights into the role of a 'process champion' in larger organizations.  Please subscribe for upcoming interviews with top CEOs and experts, and don't forget to leave a review on Apple Podcasts.

In this episode of De-stress Your Business, Alexis Kingsbury explores the impact of business structure and processes on creativity, magic, and fun.    Through personal anecdotes and examples from his consulting experiences at Sony PlayStation, Alexis argues that a lack of structure can lead to chaos, burnout, and reduced creativity.    He offers insights on how implementing clear roles, responsibilities, and meeting rhythms can enhance collaboration and efficiency, ultimately fostering a more enjoyable and innovative work environment. 

In this episode of De-stress Your Business, host Alexis Kingsbury discusses the ideal timing for documenting business processes.  Sharing insights from his personal experiences and research, Alexis highlights how documentation should be done iteratively and in real-time, rather than as a homework task.     He explains the importance of capturing processes while solving existing problems to ensure they are effective and useful.     Alexis provides practical advice on avoiding common pitfalls and emphasizes building a business that operates smoothly without dependency on any single individual. --- Want to learn how to get your processes documented super fast? Check out https://youtu.be/PLJffQh8eyQ

In this special episode of 'Destress Your Business,' Alexis Kingsbury, founder of AirManual, announces a hiatus of the podcast and shares insights on whether to use video or text for documenting business processes.  He reflects on previous episodes with Marianne Page, Adi Clevitt, Adrienne Dorison, Mike Michalowicz, and Erin Mathie, and discusses the pros and cons of video versus text documentation.  Alexis emphasizes the importance of, if starting with video, transitioning to detailed text for accuracy and continuous improvement. Using his extensive experience, he guides listeners on the best practices for efficient process documentation. --- - Want to see how we use AI to quickly document processes (instead of using video then turning this into a checklist)?  Check out this video: https://youtu.be/nmH9tixe_PU

Are you tired of chasing unicorns in your hiring process? It's time to shift your strategy and discover a more effective way to build your team!   In episode 119 of the De-Stress Your Business podcast, we dive deep into the realities of finding affordable talent and why the hunt for the perfect "mini-me" is setting you up for failure. Join Alexis Kingsbury as he shares practical advice on attracting and retaining amazing team members without breaking the bank.   In this episode, we'll cover:   Why hunting unicorns is a costly mistake Breaking down roles and skills for better hiring decisions Hiring for culture fit and skill match Providing processes, guidance, and training to ensure success   Tune in to hear real-life examples of what works and what doesn't, and get actionable steps to transform your hiring process. Whether you're a small business owner or a leader in a growing company, this episode is packed with insights to help you build a dynamic team without the mythical quest.   Listen now to episode 119 of the De-Stress Your Business podcast and start building a team of exceptional talent!   ---   Helpful resources: Episode 117: Embedding Your Values and Brand into Your Business AirManual: www.airmanual.co #DeStressYourBusiness #HiringTips #BusinessGrowth #AffordableTalent #TeamBuilding #Podcast

Do you feel like your relentless work ethic is holding your business back? You're not alone.    Many business owners find themselves trapped in a cycle of hard work that ultimately stunts their business growth. They become the bottleneck, trying to handle every task, from minor details to major decisions, which leaves them overwhelmed and their business stagnant.    This constant hustle can lead to burnout, frustration, and the painful realization that their efforts are actually hindering their success.   That's why in today's podcast, I'm speaking with Erin Mathie, a rockstar in business transformation. Erin is a fractional COO and Process Triage Certified Facilitator on a mission to end the small business time trap. With her expertise, she has transformed hundreds of businesses, teaching owners how to delegate effectively and focus on what truly drives growth.    Erin's journey is inspirational: she turned her own tutoring company into a successful venture, working only a few hours a week, and now she's dedicated to helping others achieve the same freedom and success.   Our conversation covers: Erin's journey from overworked business owner to strategic shareholder How misdirected work ethic can be a business's biggest barrier Practical steps to identify and delegate tasks to free up your time The importance of documenting processes for better delegation Inspiring success stories of business transformations   Drop your questions in the chat!   #DeStressYourBusiness #Podcast #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #Delegation #ProcessImprovement #ErinMathie   ---   Helpful resources:   Facebook- https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-mathie-36b2699/ LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-mathie-36b2699/ Business Made Simple- https://make-business-simple.com/

Are you struggling to align your team with your business values and brand?   Hanging a poster of your values on the wall isn't enough to transform your business culture.   Leaders often recognize the need to define core values and establish a strong brand identity. Yet, as teams grow, maintaining these standards can become a significant challenge. Without consistent reinforcement, your business may lose its unique edge, becoming less special, less profitable, and less appealing to both employees and customers.   So, what's the solution?   In this episode, I'll guide you through the essential steps to embed your values and brand into every part of your business. We'll explore what this looks like in practice and highlight common mistakes to avoid.   Learn what values and brand really mean for your business Hear inspiring success stories of businesses that effectively integrated their values Get actionable tips to ensure your values and brand are reflected in all aspects of your operations   Let's transform your business into something truly special!   Listen now to episode 117 of the De-Stress Your Business podcast and start making a lasting impact!   ---   Learn more about AirManual: www.airmanual.co

Are you a bit of a control freak? (Like me!)

Many business leaders wrestle with getting their employees to work collaboratively. Especially when it comes to finding the right balance between hitting day-to-day targets driving significant organizational changes. Navigating the shift from individualism to collaboration in your team can feel like trying to solve an ever-changing puzzle. And understanding how one's day-to-day tasks impact the organization's mission adds another layer of complexity, yet is crucial for the company's long-term success. Today, we're joined by someone truly exceptional – Sophie Theen. Not only is she a seasoned HR and operations executive, but she's also an award-winning author. Sophie's career spans from leading HR divisions and large teams to successfully running her own consultancy and mentoring women in technology. She's also the author of "The Soul of Startups: The Untold Stories of How Founders Affect Culture," exploring how founder personalities shape company culture—a pivotal read for founders, managers, and HR professionals.  Today we cover :

Feeling overwhelmed by the complexities of product design?   Every business owner knows the stakes are high when bringing a new product to market, but common design mistakes can turn an exciting process into a stressful nightmare. What if there was a way to simplify this process and reduce the anxiety it brings?   This week on De-stress Your Business, we're thrilled to host Rob Law, the mastermind behind Trunki, the beloved brand that revolutionized children's travel gear.   Rob's journey from a high-profile rejection on BBC's Dragon's Den to selling over 4 million suitcases worldwide is nothing short of inspiring. With over 120 awards and a personal endorsement in the form of an MBE for Services to Business, Rob's approach to product design not only avoids common pitfalls but also harnesses creativity to thrive in the global market.   Join us as we discuss: Key strategies to avoid design mistakes that most business owners face. Insights into turning design challenges into competitive advantages. Real-life stories of overcoming adversity in product development. Practical tips for streamlining your design process and reducing stress.   Tune in for an episode packed with actionable advice to help you navigate the product design journey with more confidence and less stress.   #DeStressYourBusiness #podcast #productdesign #entrepreneurship #businessgrowth #RobLaw   ---   Helpful resources: Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/trunkidaddy/ LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-law-mbe/ Website- https://www.roblaw.com/ Zeepy: https://zeepy.co/

In this episode of Destress Your Business, Alexis Kingsbury discusses the importance of issue management in empowering teams to solve problems and freeing up leaders to focus on strategic growth.  He introduces a three-component approach to issue management: the issue tracker, meeting rhythm, and empowering the team. Alexis emphasizes the need to avoid getting derailed by issues and instead give the team the opportunity to solve them.  He provides examples of different types of issues and explains how a good approach to managing them can save time and prevent frustration.  Alexis also shares the benefits of implementing an issue management system and empowering the team to own the process. --- Helpful resources: - Series of videos from Alexis on how to solve common problems in your business around handing over tasks, onboarding team members, and keeping processes up-to-date https://airmanual.link/gettingstarted

Struggling to scale your business when your face is the brand?   The journey from a personal brand to a thriving, scalable business can feel like navigating a complex labyrinth.    That's precisely why we invited Chris Ducker, the visionary behind transforming personal brands into prosperous enterprises, onto De-stress Your Business.    Chris isn't just a serial entrepreneur; he's a guru in leveraging personal identity to build and scale businesses without losing the personal touch that made them special. With his strategies, entrepreneurs worldwide are breaking the chains of limitation, pushing their businesses into realms previously thought unattainable.    This episode unpacks:  The crucial pivot point in Chris's career from personal brand to business magnate Effective tactics for expanding your brand's influence without diluting your identity  Secrets to keeping your brand's heart beating strong, even as it grows beyond you  Transformative strategies that turned Chris's insights into a global business phenomenon  How to cultivate a business legacy that echoes beyond the personal brand   Join us for an enlightening conversation with Chris Ducker and discover how to scale your personal brand into a legacy.   #DeStressYourBusiness #Podcast #ScalingUp #PersonalBrandPower #BusinessGrowth #ChrisDucker #EntrepreneurialJourney #BuildYourLegacy   ---   Helpful resources:   Chris's Podcast- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/youpreneur-the-profitable-personal-brand-expert-business/id590043753 Website- https://chrisducker.com/ LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisducker/?originalSubdomain=uk Rise of the Yourpreneur (book): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Rise-Youpreneur-Definitive-Go-Future-Proof/dp/1999857941 Giftology (book): https://www.amazon.co.uk/Giftology-Increase-Referrals-Strengthen-Retention/dp/B01KVTL44U/

Tired of tasks bouncing back to you after you delegate them?   Feeling trapped in a cycle of micromanagement, despite having a capable team?   You're not alone.    Every entrepreneur dreams of a business that runs smoothly without their constant oversight, but achieving this seems like a Herculean task.    Enter Adrienne Dorison, the co-founder of Run Like Clockwork, and the wizard behind transforming businesses into self-sustaining entities.    With a track record of liberating business owners from the trenches of day-to-day operations, Adrienne has mastered the art of making delegation irreversible.    This episode of De-stress Your Business is a potential life-changer. We sit down with Adrienne to uncover:    How to ensure tasks you delegate don't find their way back to you.  Strategies to empower your team for ultimate independence.  The journey from operational efficiency expert to helping entrepreneurs worldwide achieve freedom from their businesses.  Exclusive insights into building a team that excels without your constant input.   Listen in for an eye-opening discussion that promises to end the delegation boomerang for good.    #DeStressYourBusiness #podcast #entrepreneurship #delegation #teamempowerment #businessautonomy #operationalEfficiency   ---   Helpful resources:   Free Masterclass: Clunky to

Feeling like you're constantly pushing a boulder uphill when it comes to your business's profitability?    You're not alone.    Many entrepreneurs pour their heart and soul into their ventures, only to find themselves trapped in a cycle of hard work with minimal financial reward.    This relentless struggle can lead to burnout, frustration, and the haunting question: "Will my business ever achieve the financial success I dream of?"   Enter Reza Hooda, a true powerhouse in the world of business finance.    Reza's journey is nothing short of inspirational — from facing the grim reality of a failing accounting practice to catapulting it into a £1 million success story, all while slashing his work hours to less than 10 a week.    But Reza didn't stop there. His knack for turning financial despair into prosperity has positioned him as a sought-after mentor in the Profitable Accountants Community & Mastermind.   Under his guidance, businesses have gone from struggling to keep the lights on to celebrating record-breaking profits.    Reza's methods have proven time and again that with the right approach, financial success is not just a possibility but an achievable reality.   In this episode of De-stress Your Business, we sit down with the financial wizard himself to uncover:   The harsh realities of why so many businesses struggle to be profitable Reza's personal transformation from near failure to financial freedom Actionable, no-nonsense strategies Reza has used to revolutionize profitability for countless businesses How you can start applying Reza's winning tactics to see real results in your own business.   This conversation is a must for any entrepreneur tired of the financial runaround and ready for a serious profitability breakthrough.    #DeStressYourBusiness #profitability #RezaHooda #financialsuccess #businessgrowth #entrepreneurship ---   Helpful resources:   - Website: https://www.rezahooda.com/ - Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/rezahooda/?_rdc=1&_rdr - Twitter: https://twitter.com/RezaHooda - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rezahooda/ - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmWN24OzFacM6VA1qWqmFsw - Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-profitable-accountant-podcast/id1535053500 - Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Four-Pillars-build-accounting-freedom/dp/1399953419   Don't miss Alexis' FREE webinar: Hunting Unicorns: How to Get Affordable Talent into Your Accountancy Practice.   You can register here: https://airmanual.link/huntingunicorns

Struggling to stand out in the crowded market?   Dive into the power of niching down with our latest episode!    Alexis shares his own twists and turns, moving from a broad approach to striking gold by focusing laser-sharp on accounting businesses with AirManual.    Learn how zooming in on the perfect customer not only doubled conversions but also made the entire business smoother and more efficient.    From deep dives into industry insights to crafting 'Hunting Unicorns', this episode is packed with real-world lessons and actionable tips.   Tune in to hear about:   Real-life challenges and successes in implementing a niche-focused strategy The creation of 'Hunting Unicorns', a fresh approach to finding top talent affordably The steps that led to a breakthrough in customer focus    Get ready to find your niche and watch your business soar!   ---   Helpful resources:   - Sign up for our free webinar here https://airmanual.link/huntingunicorns - Contact Alexis at alexis.kingsbury@airmanual.co   Want to learn more? Watch Alexis's Masterclass to learn how to free up 15 hours per week and remove the constant stress of running a business, without slowing down growth. Visit www.airmanual.co/webinar for all the details!

What if the stage could be a place where you feel most alive, not terrified?   Well, you can!   Even though public speaking is at the top of the list of fears for most people, even greater than the fear of heights or spiders, it can be overcome.   Meet Andrea Pacini, the presentation maestro who has elevated the art of public speaking into an empowering skill for leaders across the globe.    With a track record of transforming over 500 TEDx speakers and collaborations with global giants like Microsoft and The World Bank, Andrea doesn't just talk the talk; he walks you through the fire of your fears to the other side, where your confidence shines and the fear disappears.   Andrea's journey from public speaking anxiety to coaching the world's top speakers is nothing short of inspirational. His method, grounded in real-world successes, proves that anyone can captivate and mesmerize an audience with the right guidance.   In this episode, we'll uncover:   Andrea's personal battle with public speaking and how he emerged victorious.  Step-by-step strategies to prepare and deliver presentations that not only inform but inspire.  Techniques that will have your audience hanging on every word, whether you're in a boardroom or broadcasting virtually.  Success stories of individuals who went from fearing the stage to owning it, thanks to Andrea's coaching.    Today's episode will show you how to turn your public speaking fears into your greatest strength.     Please post any questions you have in the comments!   #destressyourbusiness #publicspeakingfear #AndreaPacini #presentationmastery #overcomeanxiety #leadershipcommunication   ---   Helpful resources: - Ideas on Stage: https://www.ideasonstage.com  - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/apacini/ - Confident Presenter book: https://amzn.eu/d/bKswMEe - To make the most of the book, take the Confident Presenter Scorecard to assess you presentation skills in less than 3 minutes, for free: https://ideasonstage.com/score - Attend the next Ideas on Stage web class: https://www.ideasonstage.com/uk/masterclass   Want to learn more? Watch Alexis's Masterclass to learn how to free up 15 hours per week and remove the constant stress of running a business, without slowing down growth. Visit www.airmanual.co/webinar for all the details!